After emerging from a 30+ year retirement, the “Rootbeer” Rolex GTM-Master II has faced scrutiny from some Rolex collectors, but adored by others.

History of the Rolex GMT

Rolex created the original GMT in 1954 in collaboration with Pan-Am airlines. Innovations in the aviation industry allowed pilots to fly longer distances. Enter Rolex with a solution that allowed pilots to easily tell time in two separate time zones- the Rolex GMT.

Over the years, Rolex has released the GMT-Master in a variation of other colors, along with nicknames to accompany. The GMT-Master II “Batman” features a black and blue bezel, and the GMT-Master II “Rootbeer” bezel transitions from a light brown to black.

The Original Rolex “Rootbeer” GMT

The original “Rootbeer” Rolex GMT was released in the 1960’s and featured a two-toned brown and gold bezel. Later in the 80’s the “Rootbeer” models also became known as ‘Nipple Dials’ due to their gold “nipple” hour markers.

Clint Eastwood wore a “Rootbeer” GMT in his film series ‘Dirty Harry’, and the watch quickly earned the nicknames “Clint Eastwood” and “Dirty Harry.”

No matter what you call it, the original “Rootbeer” Rolex GMT has become a coveted collector’s item since its retirement in 1983. That year, Rolex unveiled the GMT Master II, and it featured the cerechrom bezel.

The Remastered Rolex “Rootbeer” GMT-Master II

Reviews were divided at the new Rolex “Rootbeer” GMT-Master II release at 2018’s Baselworld. Some collectors scoffed at the black and brown bezel replacing the iconic brown and gold color scheme.

Others appreciated the modern updates, including a stainless steel and rose gold bracelet, along with the 18-carat gold hour index in lieu of the ‘nipple’ gold markers.